As unrest grips several regions of the country, marked by the blocking of main thoroughfares, looting, the burning of debris, and widespread protests following the autopsy of Adrianna Younge on Monday, President Irfaan Ali has issued a national appeal for calm.
Speaking during a press conference from State House on Monday night, President Ali urged citizens to exercise restraint and empathy in this difficult time, while also making it clear that those responsible for acts of violence and destruction will be held accountable under the law.
“I ask that we, as a people and as a country, continue to lift the Younge family up in our prayers,” the President stated.
“Let us show and demonstrate love through prayer, as I will continue to do.”
The unrest erupted after an official autopsy confirmed that Adrianna Younge died by drowning, a conclusion that has been met with public outcry and disbelief in some quarters. Protests quickly escalated, with reports of fires on roadways, damage to private properties, and the looting of businesses and restaurants.
Independent Pathologists rule out ‘forced drowning’ in Adrianna Younge’s death
President Ali acknowledged citizens’ right to peaceful protest but condemned the violent turn some demonstrations have taken.
“We will protect every citizen’s right to peacefully demonstrate and air their concerns. However, within those rights come responsibilities. If individuals breach the law, there must and will be consequences,” he said.
The President also decried the apparent hijacking of the protests for political purposes, describing such actions as “selfish” and detrimental to national unity.
“Destruction of public infrastructure, private property, and the inconveniencing of others is not what we want as a people or as a nation. I am appealing to every citizen to let good sense prevail.”
President Ali reaffirmed his government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served both for the Younge family and for the nation as a whole.
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